Manila, July 17 -- Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Thursday said young Filipinos play a crucial role in sustaining and modernizing the country's agricultural sector.

In a message delivered by Assistant Secretary Genevieve Velicaria-Guevarra during the awarding ceremony of the Young Farmers Challenge (YFC) at the Baguio Convention Center, Laurel said the YFC program has shown how young people can bring new ideas and energy into farming.

"The Young Farmers' Challenge program is a testament to the bright and promising future of agriculture in our country. Ako po ay lubos na naniniwala na ang inyong husay at talino ay magiging susi sa isang moderno at sustainablle na agrikultura sa Pilipinas, (I fully believe that your inn...